Enhanced Protections for Consumers at the Fuel Pump

As Texas drivers prepare for the holiday weekend, I was pleased to travel to Houston and Dallas today where I introduced a series of program enhancements to put consumers in the driver’s seat when it comes to getting what they pay for at the fuel pump.

A new consumer information sticker is now required to be placed on all Texas fuel pumps and links consumers to a new mobile website, www.TexasAgriculture.gov/fuel, via their smartphones. From there, they can view pump inspection history and submit on-site complaints about the fuel station directly to the Texas Department of Agriculture if they suspect they are being shortchanged when topping off their tanks.

Additionally, retailers operating non-compliant pumps will now be fined up to $5,000 and have their fuel devices tagged out-of-order. Along with doubling, quadrupling or increasing penalties as much as tenfold, a new zero-tolerance policy also eliminates any grace period for those retailers failing to register their pumps.

Fortunately, 93 percent of all Texas retail fuel pumps registered with the Texas Department of Agriculture are found to be compliant with the laws. This new sticker, website and penalty structure are aimed at those bad apples that cheat Texas drivers out of their hard-earned money and cheat businesses in their own industry out of fair competition.

Travel safely this Labor Day weekend and go with peace of mind knowing you can now take action to ensure true value for your dollar at the pump.

New Dairy Center Continues A&M Tradition of Education, Research

Recently, I was honored to attend the grand opening of Tarleton State University’s new $11.2 million Southwest Regional Dairy Center in Stephenville. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, Tarleton State University’s new dairy center will serve as a hub of learning and research for students and industry leaders that continue to grow the great tradition of agricultural education known throughout the system. This new state-of-the-art education and research facility will play a key role in developing solutions for the dairy industry’s sustainability in Texas and the nation.

I’m extremely proud of the new dairy center, but the people who should be the proudest are the American consumers who continue to enjoy the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supply in the world thanks to those involved in agriculture.

Stop the Overreach

Last week, Americans waited to hear that Congress narrowly avoided a shutdown of the entire government over what was feared to be a failure to agree on ways to rein in out-of-control federal spending. Additionally, the U.S. House of Representatives thankfully moved to shutdown one specific component of our out-of-control federal regulatory stranglehold.

The Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 passed the U.S. House last week with a bipartisan vote of 255-172. The bill removes EPA of authority to implement its overreaching attempt to regulate greenhouse gases and raise energy costs for American families and businesses.

EPA’s proposed regulatory scheme will have profound negative impacts for refiners and energy producers while gas prices are currently hovering around $4 a gallon. Additional increases in electricity and fuel costs will hit farmers, ranchers and American families especially hard at a time when many are struggling to make ends meet.

Americans should not have to endure regulatory policies with CERTAIN costs and OBSCURE benefits. EPA administrator Lisa Jackson has said repeatedly that unilateral regulation by the United States will not improve our environment, and that greenhouse gas regulation’s benefit to the environment is negligible.

Unelected bureaucrats at the EPA have increasingly exceeded their authority at the expense of the American taxpayer. While there seems to be hope for American families through the Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011, sadly, the president has indicated he would veto the Act should it reach his desk.

Texas Congressman Attempts to Kill Death Tax

Last week, Texas Congressman Kevin Brady filed a bill to permanently repeal
the death tax – the tax paid when heirs inherit farms and ranches.

The inherent problem with this estate tax, other than it being double taxation in
most instances, is that it is often too high for families to afford, leaving them with
no other choice but to sell off the farm, agriculture land and capital that has been
in the family for generations.

At a time when fewer Americans are engaging in production agriculture, it should
be a priority for us all to end this double taxation to ensure we have the farms
and ranches needed to produce the food we eat, clothes we wear and timber that
builds our homes.

To read more about Congressman Brady’s efforts to kill the death tax, click here.

Presidents' Day

Today is Presidents’ Day, and while it’s a welcome day off for many, we should remember why this day is so important, and cherish the legacy of two of our greatest presidents whom the day honors: George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

They were very different men. Washington was a war hero who led our country through its birth, kept the American Army together through the darkest days of the revolution, and emerged as our first president. He was bold in action, but quiet and reserved when it came to public policy. Similarly, Abraham Lincoln led our nation through its second darkest hour. Unlike Washington however, Lincoln was never much of a military man, yet he was faced with the nightmare of the Civil War from the very moment his presidency began. But Lincoln possessed the gift of oratory, and a deep courage and conviction, which helped him face adversity. He persevered, found new strength, won the war, and freed the slaves.

George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were great leaders because they saw that true leadership is defined by service before self, country before compensation, people before power. They dedicated their lives to the service of others, suffered greatly for the sake of this country, and died worthy of the respect of the nation.

Enjoy this holiday, spend time with your family, but remember what has given you the freedom to do so. The freedoms and prosperity we enjoy today are owed in great part to such men.

Telling the Texas Story in D.C.

I flew into Washington Dulles International Airport yesterday to begin a busy week working with our nation’s leaders on a wide range of issues from environmental regulation to international trade. My message will be shared with our Texas Congressional delegation and my counterparts from across the country at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).

It makes me proud to serve the interests of Texas on the national stage. As a leading force in U.S. agriculture, Texas is a major player in shaping domestic and foreign policies that will impact not only farmers and ranchers, but also consumers who rely on their products to feed, cloth and shelter their families.

One topic of great debate at NASDA and on Capitol Hill is the influence of federal policies on the environment and our Texas border. From my perspective, the federal government is meddling too much in the former and not doing enough to secure the latter.

Maybe the federal government should reorganize its priorities to focus less on environmental overreach and more on citizen protective outreach. Texans deserve it, and I plan to fight for it at NASDA this week. Look for more on my efforts to limit environmental regulation and expand international trade as the week wears on.

Egyptian Unrest Creates Concerns For All

As violent protests escalate among Egyptian citizens, we are reminded just how much our agricultural markets here in Texas are affected by such events taking place far from our borders.

Egypt is the second largest export destination for Texas wheat and an important market for U.S. agricultural products valued at nearly $1.5 billon in 2009. Egypt is also an important transportation hub for the world’s oil supply with 2.1 million barrels per day passing through its canal and pipelines. That’s the equivalent of about 11 percent of the U.S. daily oil consumption. With Egypt’s Suez Canal being a critical passageway for items that both our countries use on a daily basis, the possibility of a disruption stands to increase the cost of consumer goods, such as fuel for U.S. consumers, and wheat that we produce and sell to other countries.

Times like these remind us how dependent we are on the global free market principles that enable us to continue efficient movement of those commodities we need and rely on daily. Egypt may be half a world away, but its well-being hits home in many critical ways. And very importantly, the basic profitability of most of our farmers and ranchers is dependent upon access to stable foreign markets for their products. Let's hope this transition is a smooth one.

Protecting Our Ports Safeguards Our Food

Food safety generates big headlines and news reports, and consumers have rightfully gained a heightened sense of awareness regarding contamination and foodborne illnesses. While it’s understandable these stories cause concern, we must remember the reason they’re brought to light is because our country has rigid safeguards in place to intercept contamination and other problems before they become widespread public health concerns. Frankly, I’d be more concerned if these stories didn’t make the news.

When we discuss food safety, it’s important to remember the diligent work being done by both federal and state inspectors at our country’s ports of entry. These dedicated public servants protect consumers, taxpayers and our vital agriculture industry every day by detecting and deterring pests and diseases that threaten our domestic food supply. They also make it possible for Texas and the United States to play on the world stage by competing for export markets and the jobs they create.

This short story from UPI.com details how "one of the world's most destructive pests" was detected and quarantined before it could enter the United States through Galveston. News stories like this remind us that when food sources are jeopardized through human or natural contamination, our consumers and economic competitiveness are the ultimate victims. They also serve as reminders that America enjoys the world’s safest, most affordable and most abundant food supply in the world. I commend the United States’ port inspectors for their commitment to protecting our nation.

King Cotton Shares the Wealth

Cotton has always been king in Texas, but the industry reached a crowning new achievement in January as growers earned record-high prices for their crops.

Thanks to a combination of hard work, favorable weather and growing global demand, U.S. cotton growers have enjoyed record-high prices since November, and in late-January prices, the March 2011 futures contract closed at nearly $1.70 per pound! This milestone marks a 140-year high and comes as welcome news to Texas farmers and the Lone Star economy.

Fortunately, consumers also have reason to cheer. Despite a strengthened demand for quality Texas cotton, retail prices on jeans, T-shirts and other goods are projected to remain steady. Why? The reality is cotton farmers only receive a small slice of the value of the finished product, which ultimately is priced to cover the costs of such other variables as advertising and shipping. It takes about one-and-a-half pounds of cotton to make a pair of jeans and at the current prices paid to farmers, there is only about $1.30 worth of cotton in that pair of jeans.

This double dose of good news for cotton and consumers is a win-win for all of Texas.

Starting A New Term

I was humbled, proud and privileged this week to be sworn into office for a second term as Texas Commissioner of Agriculture. I’d like to thank my family, friends and colleagues who attended the ceremony and also extend my gratitude to Texans who believe in our mission and have blessed me with the ability to serve another four years. Thanks also to Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Speaker of the House Joe Straus who presided over the ceremony, and to Sec. of State Hope Andrade who administered the oath of office.

During the next fours years, I look forward to building on the progress of the past and embracing the partnerships that will lead us into the future. Ensuring Texas remains a national leader in agriculture, job creation and economic recovery is a responsibility I take seriously. I pledge to work with state and federal partners to limit government encroachment; protect the rights of private property owners; and safeguard our domestic sources of food and fiber so that we do not become dependent on foreign countries.

With your support, we will grow Texas agriculture and our economy while continuing to be a powerhouse of productivity. It’s an honor to serve you and the great state of Texas.

Here’s a short clip of the ceremony.

After Elections, Our Work Continues

With Election Day behind us, I look forward to continuing the work we do at the Texas Department of Agriculture for the people of Texas.

Texans and Americans enjoy the safest, most affordable food supply in the world. But with the population of Texas expected to almost double from 25 million to 46 million people in 50 years, our agriculture industry must continually evolve and innovate to ensure it can efficiently meet a growing domestic demand and compete in the global marketplace. America has seen the dangers of being dependent on foreign oil; we must not become dependent on foreign food.

As your agriculture commissioner, I'm excited about assisting our farmers and ranchers in growing and safeguarding the food supply that will feed us today and into the future. Equally important will be the enhancement of initiatives created to protect all Texas consumers. Whether it’s ensuring the most affordable food supply or ensuring the best quality and accuracy at the gas pump, TDA is working hard for you.

I look forward to the next four years as your agriculture commissioner and am humbled by the trust placed in me. That trust is what motivates me every day to fulfill my responsibility to the people of Texas. Together, we will continue to make the Lone Star State shine brightly at home and abroad. The people of Texas deserve nothing less.

The Wall That Heals

I am beginning this holiday weekend with a somber reminder of what Memorial Day commemorates - the courageous men and women who died in military service for our blessed nation. I will blog more about our debt to these heroes later this weekend, but wanted to share some photos and talk about what I saw on Thursday.

The Wall that Heals is on display in Sugar Land this weekend. “The Wall” is a traveling half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. that visits communities throughout the United States. Viewing the 58,261 names of our fallen soldiers will take your breath away. It also makes you proud to be an American as it reminds you of the service and sacrifice of our brave military men and women, and their families who suffer unbearable heartache so we may live free. Let us never forget.

The Wall that Heals will be at the Sugar Land Memorial Park through Memorial Day. I encourage you to pay a visit and offer your respect at The Wall and in your heart this Memorial Day weekend.

A Valued Partnership With the Texas Bison Association

I had the honor of speaking with members of the Texas Bison Association at the group’s recent meeting in Fort Worth. I'm a firm believer that partnerships lead to progress, which is why I appreciate the association and its commitment to the Texas Department of Agriculture's GO TEXAN program.

The Texas Bison Association was formed in 1994 to advocate bison ranching in the Lone Star State. In an effort to maximize its outreach, the Texas Bison Association automatically enrolls its more than 60 members into the GO TEXAN marketing campaign, which promotes the products culture and communities of Texas. For $25 per year, each member of the Texas Bison Association can enjoy such promotional benefits as discounted advertising, exposure at year-round events and festivals, and listings in TDA promotional materials.

It makes me proud to know the association places such a high value on GO TEXAN branding and membership in its mission to advance Texas agriculture. In fact, this is a first where every single member of an association is pre-paid to become a GO TEXAN member. Thanks to the Texas Bison Association for leading the way. Maybe others will soon follow.

For more information about the benefits of GO TEXAN membership, visit our website at www.GoTexan.org. Meanwhile, visit the Texas Bison Association website at www.TexasBison.org. There you will discover a wealth of interesting bison facts while learning more about raising bison and enjoying lean bison meat.

Want to Brag About Texas? Now is Your Chance ... Tell Us What 'Texas Is …' to You!

My travels took me to Lubbock Tuesday where I proudly announced the "Texas Is…" amateur video competition to boost tourism in Texas. The announcement coincides with Texas Travel and Tourism Week, May 8-16. The contest invites all Texans to submit a one-minute video clip telling travelers and tourists why Texas is so near and dear to our hearts.

From our scenic beauty and wide-open spaces to cultural traditions and deep-rooted Texas pride, the Lone Star State gives us plenty to brag about. Whether your next getaway takes you to a Texas winery, beach, nature trail or backyard barbecue, capture it on film, digital recorder or cell phone, and tell us what Texas means to you.

If your video submission is chosen as a winner, your clip may be used in nationwide marketing materials, social media sites and on our website to promote Texas tourism.

For more details on this competition, visit www.TexasAgriculture.gov.

Happy Mother’s Day

If your life is blessed with love, laughter and friendship, you can give thanks to your dear Mom. Besides giving these gifts to you, Moms make it possible for you to share them with others so you may live a life fulfilled. Happily married? Thank your Mom. Surrounded by friends? Thank your Mom. Determined to be an exemplary parent? Thanks again, Mom.

The qualities that make you appealing to others are the gifts given to you by Mom. Compassion and patience would be two lonely words if not for the Moms of the world. From skinned knees to broken hearts, Moms have a way of mending life’s wounds. They also are life’s greatest teachers, caretakers and influences. Even if your Mom is no longer with us, she lives among us every day through your smile and kind-hearted actions.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day today, let’s be grateful for the countless sacrifices made by all the good Moms in the world. Being a Mom is hard work and those who do the job well make the world a better place for us all. Thanks, Mom. And Happy Mother's Day!

Houston School's Community Garden Off to a Great Start

The community garden at Betsy Ross Elementary in Houston is a great example of agriculture flourishing in urban settings.

The school recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the garden, made possible by the Texas Department of Agriculture's Urban Schools Agricultural Grant Program. Betsy Ross Elementary was awarded $2,500 for its project, "Learning and Growing the Food We Eat."

The project will act as an outdoor classroom for students, teachers and the entire community. The garden will help students understand the important role agriculture plays in their lives, while teaching them about healthy eating.

Congratulations to the teachers and students at Betsy Ross! I'd like to also extend a special thanks to Borden Milk Products and Kitchen Craft International for their generosity in making this grant program possible.

When Considering Land-Use and Water Policies, We Must be Mindful of Unintended Consequences

Oregon farmers and land owners are facing some interesting policy decisions as they reconsider a 1973 zoning regulation that was designed to maintain open space and preserve farmland, but may be resulting in the loss of operational farmland, hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars. According to some farmers, zoning land for agriculture only has limited the ability of orchards to maximize their land holdings, putting some in danger of going out of business and preventing others from raising capital to expand.

This demonstrates the need to understand markets and the consequences of policy decisions as we approach land use and water policy here in Texas. Water policy will be a major issue in the 2011 Legislative Session, and we must take a thoughtful and balanced approach that provides the flexibility for farmers and ranchers to continue producing the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supply in the nation while also maintaining the value of their land.

Good News for Farmers, Ranchers and Consumers

Gov. Perry recently announced the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF) is investing $250,000 in Smartfield Inc., of Lubbock, for the commercialization of its crop irrigation management technology.

I have often said we are very proud of our bigger tractors and more horsepower, but science has led the way to the unprecedented level of productivity American agriculture enjoys today.

According to the governor’s release, Smartfield’s technology uses sensors to monitor rainfall, crop canopy temperatures and stress levels, and informs growers of the real-time irrigation demands of virtually any type of row crop. This method makes it easier for growers to determine the ideal conditions for watering crops, ultimately reducing pumping and labor costs, saving water and improving crop yields.

This technology offers tremendous potential benefits to all Texans as we struggle to manage water resources for a state growing in agriculture as well as population.

Get TDA News Directly in your Inbox

Whether it's agricultural production, consumer protection, economic development, marketing or healthy lifestyles, I know employees at the Texas Department of Agriculture are working hard each day to provide Texans with exceptional service. And now I'm excited to announce Texans can stay informed of what we are doing through a new subscription service at TDA.

You can subscribe to any or all of the publications TDA produces, or you can choose to only receive news and articles written about your preferred topics, such as Farming and Ranching or Healthy Living. And the best part is your selections will arrive directly in your e-mail inbox.

To subscribe, fill out the form below, or visit www.TexasAgriculture.gov and click on Newsroom to find a link to Newsroom Publications.

Water Connects Urban, Rural Texans

The urban-rural interconnection should be on the minds of all Texans. After all, this is not a case of “us” and “them,” but rather a case of “we,” as in, “we are all in this together."

David Langford, who lives in Comfort, Texas, is vice president emeritus of the Texas Wildlife Association and formerly served as CEO of the association for 12 years, recently wrote an editorial that was published in the Austin American-Statesman. His opinion brings to light the close connection all Texans have in regard to our water supply. It is well worth the read.